FROM today (Wednesday), drivers in NSW will face new reporting guidelines if they are involved in a traffic crash.
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Police will only be required to attend and investigate crashes if they meet one or more of three criteria:
1. Where a person is killed or injured.
2. Where parties fail to exchange particulars.
3. Where a driver appears to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Drivers involved in traffic crashes where their vehicle needs to be towed - and none of the above criteria apply - can now organise their own tow and leave the area and later report the crash to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
In addition, drivers will no longer need to report minor collisions to police, even for insurance purposes.
“The new streamlined process is about cutting back red tape and diverting police resources into broader road safety initiatives and other investigations,” Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner John Hartley said.
Police will attend the scene of a crash to direct traffic and deal with hazards or debris on the road, as well as assist with the tow of heavy vehicles.
Currently police attend and investigate where a person is killed or injured; parties fail to exchange particulars; a driver is under the influence; or a vehicle involved requires towing.
Motorists have expressed some concern about the new guidelines.
“Do we have to carry breath analysers in our car and ask the other person to blow into this?” Sandra James posted on the Gloucester Advocate’s Facebook page.
“Minor accidents can cause major damage and have the potential to be dangerous to other traffic on the road.”
Ross James was similarly apprehensive.
“Minor accidents could lead to major altercations,” he posted.
Other motorists felt police resources would be better utilised elsewhere.
“In this time of smart technology and with proper training, the police could outsource this activity to the public,” Colin Charles posted.
“It may be a great way to save money and police resources. But there may be a need for expenditure on trauma counselling and legal advice.”
Reports of ‘minor’ traffic crashes - where vehicles do not require towing - will no longer be recorded by police and police event numbers will not be issued for these incidents.
A ‘flowchart’ with step-by-step instructions on what to do in a crash will be sent to motorists with registration renewals, which can be kept in the glove box.